The Sugarloaf Showdown Turns 12: A Lower Keys Tradition That’s Now a Hot Ticket

Sugarloaf Key, FL — November 2025 — What started as a small, homegrown fishing tournament designed to fill guides’ calendars in the “off-season” has become one of the most sought-after events in the Florida Keys. The Lower Keys Guides Association’s 12th Annual Sugarloaf Showdown has officially sold out—again. But this year, the surprise came with speed: the roster of 30 boats capped out in under 48 hours, leaving a waitlist of eager anglers hoping for a chance to join.

Originally founded to bring anglers to the Lower Keys during the quiet fall season, the Sugarloaf Showdown has stayed true to its laid-back, family-friendly roots. Over the years, the “little tournament with local charm” has grown into a November tradition that’s now a coveted spot on the competitive fishing calendar.

“This tournament embodies the spirit of the Lower Keys—chill, fun, and community-driven—but the demand we’re seeing shows how much it means to anglers,” said Jessyca LaBadie, Operations Manager and Tournament Director of LKGA. “It’s still the same Showdown everyone loves, but it’s become something people don’t want to miss.”

Hosted by LKGA, the Sugarloaf Showdown is a catch-and-release tournament targeting bonefish, permit, and barracuda. Anglers can compete with fly or spin tackle, and champions are crowned based on scoring across all three species. Special recognition is also awarded to youth anglers, keeping the tournament multigenerational and inclusive.

Giving Back to Those Who Give to Fishing Guides
Proceeds from the tournament benefit the Guides Trust Foundation (GTF), a nonprofit organization that provides financial assistance to Florida Keys fishing guides and their families facing hardship due to illness, injury, or natural disaster. GTF plays a vital role in helping working guides recover and return to the water—sustaining both the local economy and the fishing culture that defines the Keys. In 2024, the Sugarloaf Showdown donated nearly $12,000 to GTF, marking a nearly 300% increase from the previous year. This incredible growth reflects the strength of community support, participation, and sponsorship, and underscores LKGA’s commitment to both conservation and the well-being of those who make their living on the water.

Auction with Heart The tournament’s online auction—open to the public—features guided trips, artwork, tackle, and gear from across the Keys and beyond. The auction will open for viewing on Monday, November 10, and go live for bidding on Wednesday, November 13. Links to browse and bid can be found at SugarloafShowdown.com.

This year, the auction will also include a special collection of donated guide trips, with 100% of proceeds benefiting the family of Jacob Harnett. Jacob’s recent passing sent ripples through the Florida Keys fishing community. Though not an LKGA member, Jacob was part of the larger Keys guiding community, and his loss has been deeply felt among friends and fellow anglers. This dedicated auction is a way for guides and anglers to come together in support of his family during this difficult time.

About the Event The 12th Annual Sugarloaf Showdown will be held November 13–15, 2025. Events kick off Thursday with check-in and a rules meeting at Sugarloaf Marina, followed by two days of fishing and an awards dinner on the grass lawn behind Sugarloaf Lodge on Saturday evening.

For more details and to access the auction, visit SugarloafShowdown.com.

About the Lower Keys Guides Association (LKGA) The Lower Keys Guides Association represents nearly 90 professional fishing guides and over 150 anglers dedicated to the conservation and sustainable use of the Florida Keys’ unique backcountry and offshore fisheries. Founded to protect the waters, wildlife, and heritage of the Lower Keys, LKGA actively engages in advocacy, education, and conservation projects. From collaborating with scientists on research initiatives to supporting habitat restoration and water quality improvements, LKGA works to ensure that the Florida Keys remain a thriving, world-class fishery for generations to come. Learn more at www.LKGA.org.

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